University of Florida - Tower Yearbook / Seminole Yearbook

“PLAYGROUND M. Boyette Individuals of a religious persuation other than that of Jed Smock also roam the Plaza. The members of the Hare Krishna Temple visit the Plaza of the Americas several times during the school year. Aafron robes and shaved heads usu- ally characterize this controversial sect of Hinduism. The Hare Krishnas also differ from other relgions ' visitors of the plaza in their activities. Instead of lecturing, the Hare Krishnas talk to students on an indi- vidual basis, hand out literature, offer food, play music and take donations. " We give people something better to eat, " says Manusrestha, Secretary of the Temple, " which is beneficial spiritually and Along with handing out food, the Hare Krishna devotees chant the " Mahamantra " , commonly known as the " Hare Krishna Chant " . The chant contains the names Krishna and Rama, which are the two human forms of the Hindu god Vishnu, the sustainer of life. Music played on the harmonium and the karatals usually accompany the " Maha-mantra " . The religiously-inspired individuals share the Plaza with one of the area ' s most frequent visitors, William Webb Selley. For seven years, Selley has entertained the students with his guitar and harmonica. Once a University of Florida student, the Brooklyn native decided to take up at the plaza. Through his music and his " youthing " concept, William Webb Selley hopes to change the present culture from a polluting, industrial society to a more agricultural one. The Plaza commonly serves as a for students. However, the of frisbee-throwing, sunbathing, and socializing combine with the causes of the Plaza ' s people of notoriety to give the area a unique personality all its own. A trio at the Plaza experiences yoga. A student combines sunbathing and studying. Plaza 39 ”